About Us

Gaston County Animal Care and Enforcement was established to provide for the health and safety of citizens and protect them from animals and the threat of animals. The mission of Animal Care and Enforcement is not only to enhance the safety of citizens, but also to ensure the proper care and treatment of animals. This is accomplished through animal-related services which reflect our professionalism and a concern for responsible pet ownership. Animal Care and Enforcement became a Division of the County Police Department on September 18, 1995.

Gaston County Animal Care and Enforcement Division was established in 1972 to enforce animal related North Carolina General Statutes and Gaston County Ordinances. Animal Care and Enforcement impounds and cares for stray, diseased, injured, and unwanted animals at the Animal Shelter. The animals are properly housed and cared for until owners either reclaim their pet, the animal is placed with a new owner through the Adoption-Medical Program, or until such designated time.

In addition to these duties, our department is responsible for the field operation, consisting of both sworn and non-sworn personnel, to investigate animal related complaints including nuisance, leash laws, animals on school grounds, rabies suspects, and reported cases of cruelty, abuse and neglect.